Steelers Daily News & Links: Troy Fautanu Was Born to Be a Steeler; Draft History Tidbits

Pittsburgh Steelers 2024 NFL Draft Prospect Troy Fautanu
Washington offensive lineman Troy Fautanu reacts after a touchdown by running back Dillon Johnson against Utah during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

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? A few hours after being selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers at 20th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, Troy Fautanu said on X that he was born to be a Steeler.

“God is so good. It couldn’t be written any better. I was born to be a Steeler! Pittsburgh… let’s get to work! Fautanu wrote.

Troy Fautanu grew up a Steelers fan. His favorite player was Troy Polamalu, so it’s a full circle moment for the Henderson, Nevada native. He was in tears after he got the call from the Steelers.

“When I tell y’all this truly is a dream come true…. It was already written,” he wrote.

? Former NFL offensive lineman Geoff Schwartz said Troy Fautanu is a tough SOB who looks to punish defenders. He thinks Fautanu is a great fit in Pittsburgh.

? Former Steelers offensive tackle Max Starks also loves the Fautanu selection.

? Troy Fautanu had a 86.0 pass-blocking grade since 2022, which ranked seventh among all FBS tackles, according to Pro Football Focus.

? The Steelers drafted an offensive lineman in the first round in https://twitter.com/missi_matthews/status/1783725802388939174″>consecutive

drafts for the first time in the 89-year history of the NFL Draft.

? Troy Fautanu is the 10th offensive lineman selected in the first round in franchise history — the most of any position since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger.

? Troy Fautanu is the 16th Washington player drafted by Pittsburgh in franchise history — the most of any Pac-12 program.

? Troy Fautanu is the first Washington player drafted by Pittsburgh since tight end Mark Bruener in 1995. Bruener was also a first-round pick. He’s now a scout with the team.

? Thursday marked the 21st anniversary of the Steelers selection of USC strong safety Troy Polamalu at 16th overall in the 2003 NFL Draft.

? Football analyst/scout and offensive line guru Brandon Thorn posted a clip of Troy Fautanu dominating in the run game.

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